1998 Acura Tl problems

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The Acura TL is a car that was manufactured by Acura, the luxury division of Honda. It was introduced in 1995 to replace the Acura Vigor and was badged for the Japanese-market from 1996 to 2000 as the Honda Inspire and from 1996 to 2004 as the Honda Saber. The TL was Acura's best-selling model until it was outsold by the MDX in 2007. In 2005, it ranked as the second best-selling luxury sedan in the United States behind the BMW 3 Series, but sales decreased after the 2008 model year. Four generations of the Acura TL were produced, with the final fourth generation TL premiering in 2008 as a 2009 model and ending production in 2014, when it was replaced together with the TSX by the TLX.

First generation (UA1–UA3; 1996–1998)

The TL "Touring Luxury" debuted as 1996 model, first with the 1996 2.5 TL available with the 2.5 L 176 hp (131 kW) SOHC 20-valve 5-cylinder engine from the Vigor. The 3.2 TL used the 3.2 L 200 hp (149 kW) SOHC 24v V6 from the second generation Acura Legend. The model with the 2.0-liter inline-five was not offered in the US market. The debut of the TL signaled Acura's shift from traditional vehicle names to alphanumeric designations. By replacing recognizable names such as Vigor and Legend with a two-letter designation, the luxury maker hoped to focus consumer attention on the Acura name. The TL was the first Acura model to adopt the new naming scheme.

The 2.5 TL was positioned as the sporty model and the 3.2 focused more upon a luxurious ride. There were minimal styling differences between the two, but the 3.2 TL had larger tires despite the 2.5 TL's more sporty marketing. Moreover, the added power in the 3.2 TL gave it better acceleration. Both engines were mounted in a front-rear, or longitudinal position. This contrasted with the more typical transverse engine mount style, and was intended to provide better weight distribution and reduce nose dive. The engine mount design resulted in an elongated hood for the first generation TL, a shorter front overhang and longer wheelbase, fitting for a near-luxury car. The inline-5 engine in the 2.5 TL competed with similar 5-cylinder engines offered in Audi and Volvo models.

The first 1996 Acura TL was manufactured at Sayama, Japan on March 28, 1995. Sales of the 2.5 TL began in spring 1995, but the 3.2 TL was delayed until fall because of a U.S.-Japan trade dispute. The U.S. government had threatened to impose 100% tariffs on higher-priced Japanese cars in response a growing U.S.-Japan trade deficit. Ultimately a deal was reached which avoided the tariffs.

The first generation Acura TL had standard features including dual airbags, antilock brakes, automatic climate control, a cassette/CD player sound system, and power windows and locks. Leather was standard on the more upscale 3.2 TL, while the 2.5 TL featured a firmer suspension setup. Like its predecessor, the Vigor, this generation TL was a 4-door pillared hardtop, with frameless windows.

1998 Acura Tl

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Common 1998 Acura Tl problems

The 1998 Acura TL is known for several common problems, primarily related to the car's engine, transmission, and interior accessories.

  • Transmission Failure: Another common problem with the 1998 Acura TL is transmission failure. This issue can be caused by various factors, including worn-out clutch plates, a damaged torque converter, or a faulty transmission control module. Symptoms of transmission failure include difficulty shifting gears, slipping between gears, and the transmission getting stuck in a particular gear. The average cost to fix this issue is around $2,800, with an average mileage of 114,000 miles.
  • Cracked Dashboard: The dashboard of the 1998 Acura TL is also known to crack, particularly in the center console area. This issue is often caused by exposure to sunlight and heat, which can cause the dashboard material to become brittle and crack. The average cost to fix this issue is around $1,800, with an average mileage of 100,000 miles.
  • Check Engine and D4 Flashing Lights: Many owners of the 1998 Acura TL have reported issues with the check engine and D4 flashing lights. This issue is often caused by a faulty transmission control module (TCM) or a bad torque converter. When the TCM malfunctions, it can cause the check engine and D4 lights to illuminate, indicating a problem with the transmission. The average cost to fix this issue is around $110 to $139, with an average mileage of 132,057 miles.
  • Power Steering Pump Failure: The power steering pump in the 1998 Acura TL is also known to fail, causing difficulty steering the vehicle. This issue is often caused by worn-out internal gaskets, which can cause the pump to leak or fail. The average cost to fix this issue is around $1,000 to $1,500, with an average mileage of 100,000 miles .
  • Suspension Problems: The suspension system in the 1998 Acura TL is also known to have issues, including worn-out bushings, ball joints, and tie rods. These issues can cause the vehicle to handle poorly, particularly at high speeds. The average cost to fix this issue is around $500 to $1,000, with an average mileage of 100,000 miles .
  • Brake System Failure: The brake system in the 1998 Acura TL is also known to have issues, including worn-out brake pads, rotors, and calipers. These issues can cause the vehicle to brake poorly, particularly at high speeds. The average cost to fix this issue is around $500 to $1,000, with an average mileage of 100,000 miles .
  • Airbag System Failure: The airbag system in the 1998 Acura TL is also known to have issues, including faulty sensors or wiring. These issues can cause the airbags to deploy improperly in the event of an accident, potentially causing injury or death. The average cost to fix this issue is around $500 to $1,000, with an average mileage of 100,000 miles .
  • Electrical System Failure: The electrical system in the 1998 Acura TL is also known to have issues, including faulty wiring, blown fuses, or a damaged alternator. These issues can cause the vehicle to lose power or fail to start. The average cost to fix this issue is around $500 to $1,000, with an average mileage of 100,000 miles .
  • Interior Accessories Failure: The interior accessories in the 1998 Acura TL are also known to have issues, including faulty power windows, power locks, or audio systems. These issues can cause the vehicle to be uncomfortable or inconvenient to use. The average cost to fix this issue is around $500 to $1,000, with an average mileage of 100,000 miles .

In conclusion, the 1998 Acura TL is known for several common problems related to the engine, transmission, interior accessories, and other systems. While these issues can be costly to fix, regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent them from occurring. If you are considering purchasing a 1998 Acura TL, it is essential to be aware of these common problems and to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase.

1998 Acura Tl engine

What is the common problem with Acura TL?

The TL also has excellent ownership costs, low severity of repairs, and rarely develops major issues. The Acura TL can hit 100,000 miles or more without issue. Common Acura TL problems include engine troubles, electrical problems, and interior accessories issues.

Is the 1999 Acura TL fast?

The TL's Anna, Ohio-built, 225-horse SOHC V-6, featuring variable-valve timing and a smooth-running 60-degree angle between cylinder banks, pushes the 3.2TL 0-60 mph in a quick 7.4 seconds.

What does TL mean in Acura?

If you're conducting used car research to find a deal on pre-owned luxury vehicles, it only makes sense to learn about the Acura TL—a car with touring luxury actually built into its name. The Acura TL is a mid-sized luxury car that succeeded the Acura Vigor and was produced between 1996 and 2014.

How many gears does Acura TL have?

The Acura TL Type-S received the Acura RL's 3.5-liter J35A8 V6 tuned to 286 horsepower (213 kW) and 256 lb-ft of torque with either a 5-speed automatic with F1 style paddle shifters or a 6-speed manual transmission. The manual transmission includes a limited slip differential.

1998 Acura Tl car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Acura Tl problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Power train problems
  • Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Acura Tl vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1998 Acura Tl

The NHTSA has received 26 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Acura Tl. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Acura Tl vehicles.

2014-11-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-07-01
  • VIN: JH4UA265XWC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 ACURA TL. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V025000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM), BUT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN DRIVE POSITION, THE KEY WAS REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION. THE VEHICLE ROLLED AWAY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE WOULD FORGET TO PLACE THE VEHICLE IN PARK SOMETIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000. UPDATED 12/19/14*CN UPDATED 05/26/2015 *JS
2013-01-16

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-01-01
  • VIN: JH4UA2653WC
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: 1998 ACURA TL. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DEFECTIVE OR CRACKED EXHAUST MANIFOLD AND SEEKS GOODWILL ASSISTANCE. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE CHECK ENGINE CODE INDICATED A FAULTY OXYGEN SENSOR AND THERE WERE EXHAUST FUMES ENTERING THE VEHICLE.
2009-11-17

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-06-03
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JH4UA3640WC
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: NO EVENTS INDICATING A FAILURE WAS IMMINENT. PEDAL BRAKE FOR 1998 ACURA FAILED TO STOP WHILE DRIVING IN STOP/GO MUNICIPAL TRAFFIC. CAR ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL AND HIT AN OFF ROAD TREE AND WAS A TOTAL UNREPAIRABLE LOSS. POLICE INVESTIGATED. CAR OCCUPANTS TRANSPORTED TO HOSPITAL FOR EMERGENCY TREATMENT. NO OTHER PERSONAL INJURIES. ONLY MINOR PROPERTY COLLATERAL PROPERTY DAMAGES. REPORTED TO AUTO INSURANCE CARRIER AND HONDA AMERICA. HONDA AMERICA DECLINED TO INVESTIGATE OR INSPECT THE VEHICLE AND CLAIMED THE GAS PEDAL WAS MISTAKENLY ENGAGED INSTEAD OF THE PEDAL BRAKE. CONFIRMED BY HA LETTER. ACURA OWNER SETTLED CLAIM WITH INSURANCE COMPANY. THIS CONCLUSION SEEMS INCONSISTENT WITH EARLIER NHTSA INVESTIGATIONS INTO 1990S ACURAS AS I WAS ABLE TO RETRIEVE FROM HTTP://CONSUMERHASSOFSHAME.HOMESTEAD.COM///INDEX~NS4.HTML. *TR
2009-03-06

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-01-10
  • VIN: JH4UA2651WC
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: MY 1998 ACURA 2.5 TL HAS HAD NOTICEABLE EXHAUST LEAK INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT FROM ABOUT 100,000 MILES POINT, SINCE JANUARY 2008L ABOUT ONE YEAR AGO. ALL THE OUTSIDE SMELLS COME RIGHT IN EVEN THOUGH I ALWAYS HAVE VENTS AND AIR COND OR HEATER SET TO "INSIDE AIR ONLY" SETTING. ALONG WITH EXHAUST I SMELL THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER ODOR, REFINERY ODOR WHEN I DRIVE PAST REFINERY, SKUNK SMELL WHEN I DRIVE OVER EVEN A SPOT WHERE A SKUNK WAS REMOVED A FEW DAYS AGO, ETC AND ALSO THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON A YEAR AGO, AS MANY OTHER OWNERS HAVE REPORTED, I HAD IT DIAGNOSED AS FAILED OXYGEN SENSOR BUT IT SEEMS THAT GOES WITH THE CRACKED ENGINE MANIFOLD. THIS WIDELY REPORTED CONDITION SHOULD BE A MFGR RECALL NOTICE. THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR THE FAILURE TO RECALL OVER THIS PERSISTENT DEFECT. OWNERS NOW KNOW THAT IT WAS THE VERY SAME PROBLEM IN 1996 AND 1997 WHERE IT WAS A RECALL NOTICE ITEM; IT SHOULD BE FOR 1998 AS WELL. I HAVE BEEN THE MOST LOYAL OF ACURA OWNERS (THIS IS OUR FOURTH ACURA AS A FAMILY) BUT I AND MY HUSBAND WILL NO LONGER TOLERATE SUCH DISHONESTY IN ACURA CO. *TR
2008-11-04

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-11-02
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: I RECENTLY BOUGHT A 1998 ACURA TL 2.5 AND THE DRIVER SIDE FRONT BALL JOINT SQUEAKS. WHILE I WAS LOOKING FOR PARTS AT AUTOZONE I WAS ALERTED THAT MY CAR WAS UNDER RECALL FOR DEFECTIVE LOWER BALL JOINTS. I AM NOT THE ORIGINAL OWNER AND WONDERED IF IT IS POSSIBLE TO GET IT REPAIRED AT NO COST ? *TR
2007-05-18

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-11-01
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: I OWN AN ACURA 2.5 TL MODEL YEAR 1998. I WAS INFORMED BY DEALER LAST YEAR THAT THERE WAS AN EXHAUST MANIFOLD LEAK IN THE ENGINE. THE DEALER QUOTED $2000 TO FIX THE PROBLEM. I HAVE NOT HAD IT FIXED SO FAR, BUT I FEAR THAT THE EXHAUST FUMES WERE INFILTRATING THE CABIN, AND WE WERE BREATHING EXHAUST FUMES WHEN IN THE CAR. UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION I FOUND THAT THIS PROBLEM WAS ALSO REPORTED WIDELY IN EARLIER MODEL YEARS. *AK
2005-12-01

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-11-23
  • VIN: JH4UA3640WC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE PULLING OUT FROM A STOP SIGN THE TRANSMISSION CASE BOLT BROKE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A MECHANIC, WHO FOUND NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN 99V227000 FOR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. THE MANUFACTURER SAID THAT THE RECALL REPAIRS HAD BEEN COMPLETED PREVIOUSLY, AND THEY WERE NOT WILLING TO REPAIR THE TRANSMISSION AGAIN. *AK
2005-07-14

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-07-12
  • VIN: JH4UA2658WC
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: AUTO TECHNICIAN HAS DETERMINED THAT 1998 ACURA 2.5 TL HAS A CRACKED MANIFOLD. SAME VEHICLE FROM 1995-97 HAS BEEN MANDATED BY NHTSA TO HAVE THIS REPAIRED BY MANUFACTURER. I WOULD LIKE MY VEHICLE YEAR TO BE INCLUDED IN THIS MANDATE.
2005-01-18

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-01-11
  • VIN: JH4UA2659WC
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: PART B TO ODI# 10106272 FORGOT TO NOTE THAT EXHAUST COMES INTO THE VEHICLE FROM THE FRESH AIR INTAKE AND GIVES ME HEADACHES ON LONG TRIPS. *NM
2005-01-13

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-01-11
  • VIN: JH4UA2659WC
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: EXHAUST SYSTEM ON MY 1998 ACURA 2.5 TL HAS A CRACK IN THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD. I'VE BEEN TOLD THE MANUFACTURER REPLACED THIS ON THE 96 & 97 TL'S BUT WILL NOT FOR THE 1998. I UNDERSTAND FROM RESEARCH THERE WERE NO CHANGES TO THE BODY STYLE OR ENGINE BETWEEN THE 96 -98 SO WHY WON'T THEY COVER THE 98? *NM
2004-12-03

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-10-09
  • VIN: JH4UA3640WC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: CONSUMER STATES THE BOLT ON THE VEHICLE BROKE. RECALL NUMBER 99V227000 THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE DEALER AND WAS TOLD THE RECALL HAD BEEN PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE . THE CONSUMER WAS NOT THE ORIGINAL OWNER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. JB *TC
2004-11-02

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-07-05
  • VIN: JH4UA2659WC
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: ENGINE MANIFOLD DEVELOPED A CRACK. AS A RESULT, VEHICLE PRODUCED AN EXTREME LOUD NOISE. *AK MANIFOLD REPLACED. TRUNK LEAKS WHEN IT RAINS. *TC
2004-07-17

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-03-10
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: EXHAUST SYSTEM ON THE 1998 ACURA 2.5 TL. I HAVE HAD TO HAVE THE O2 SENSOR REPLACED AND NOW AS TOLD THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD IS CRACKED. I WAS ALDO TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT THERE HAVE BEEN A NUMBER OF CASES WERE THE MANIFOLD CRACKED. IF THIS IS A PROBLEM THAT YOU SEE REPEATED IN A PARTICULAR VEHICLE IS IT NOT FAIRLY SAFE TO SAY THERE IS A PROBLEM FROM THE MANUFACTURE? WHAT CAN BE DONE TO SAVE CONSUMERS THE EXPENSE OF ABOUT $1200.00 TO REPAIR WHAT SEEMS OBVIOUS TO BE A MANUFACTURER DEFECT WITH THE EXHAUST SYSTEM?*AK
2004-04-26

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-04-10
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JH4UA3648WC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN WHEN, FOR NO APPARENT REASON, THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED RESULTING IN A COLLISION THAT TOTALLED THE CAR. WE WANT THE INFORMATION INSIDE THE AIRBAG COMPUTER READ/EXTRACTED. WE SUSPECT INSURANCE FRAUD IN THIS INCIDENT.*AK
2003-06-18

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-06-05
  • VIN: JH4UA2651WC
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TO REPAIR A TRUNK LEAK MY DEALER FOUND THE TAIL LIGHT GASKETS ON BOTH SIDES FAILED ALLOWING WATER TO LEAK INTO THE TRUNK. HE FURTHER STATED THIS IS COMMON IN THE BODY STYLE CAR I OWN AND THAT OTHER MODELS EXPERIENCE SIGNIFICANTLY FEWER REPAIRS OF THIS NATURE. *NLM
2002-07-03

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-06-11
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JH4UA2658WC
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: I HAD JUST MADE A RIGHT TURN INTO A PARKING SPACE PROCEEDING AT ABOUT 2 MILES PER HOUR WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND WAS ABOUT TWO FEET FROM THE END OF THE SPACE, ABOUT TO TURN OFF THE ENGINE, WHEN SUDDENLY THE CAR ACCELERATED FORWARD, WENT OVER A BUMPER, AND PROCEEDED TO GO DOWN A HILL, PART ON SOME CONCRETE STAIRS AND PART ON GRASS. I BRAKED ALL THE WAY AND STOPPED AT THE BOTTOM OF TWO SETS OF STAIRS. SWITCHED CAR INTO NEUTRAL, ENGINE WAS RACING, AND TURNED OFF ENGINE. CAR WAS TOTALLED. NO INJURIES.*AK
2001-09-07

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 19UYA2256WL
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TO MY KNOWLEDGE, THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS LINKED TO THE 3.0 V6 OF THE ACURA CL AND HONDA ACCORD HAVE BEEN GIVING NUMEROUS HONDA CUSTOMERS PROBLEMS. THE TRANS. HAS BEEN SHIFTING ABRUPTLY AND INTO INAPPROPRIATE GEARS FOR SOME TIME. THIS IS POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS DUE TO THE FACT THAT I NEARLY TOTALED MY ACURA WHILE TRYING TO PASS A SLOW MOVING VEHICLE AND THE TRANSMISSION MALFUNCTIONED DURING THIS ATTEMPT AT PASSING. I NEARLY COLLIDED WITH ON COMING TRAFFIC. MY CAR IS CURRENTLY IN THE SHOP FOR THIS PROBLEM AND HAS CAUSED ME TO HAVE TO REBUILD THE TRANSMISSION BECAUSE I CANNOT AFFORD THE COST OF A NEW REPLACEMENT FROM THE FACTORY. THIS HAS CAUSED ME A LOT OF WASTED TIME AND MONEY. ON A "LUXURY" BRAND AUTOMOBILE, ONE WOULD NOT EXPECT TO HAVE TO REPLACE OR REBUILF THE TRANSMISSION JUST APPROX. 3 YEARS AFTER IT WAS SOLD AS BRAND NEW. I WAS TOLD THAT THIS IS A FAMILIAR PROBLEM WITH THIS PARTICULAR TYPE OF TRANSMISSION AND EXPECT THE HONDA MANUFACTURER TO RECOGNIZE THIS PROBLEM AND REPLACE OR FIX THE PROBLEM THAT MANY OWNERS ARE HAVING. I WOULD APPRETIATE BEING UPDATED ON *ANY* PROGRESS THAT IS MADE WITH CORRECTING THIS PROBLEM. I CAN BE REACHED AT MY E-MAIL ADDRESS-( [email protected] )-- THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER.*AK
2001-05-20

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-03-15
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 19UYA3254WL
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: VEHICLE ACCELERATES WHEN BRAKES APPLIED IN SHARP TURN; OCCURS AT 35 MPH AND 10 MPH. THREE OCCURRENCES TO DATE WITH TWO DIFFERENT DRIVERS.*AK
2001-04-04

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-04-02
  • VIN: JH4UA2659WC
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: CRACK IN EXHAUST MANIFOLD. *AK
2001-01-10

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-12-01
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 19UYA3159WL
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: I WAS STOPPED TO TURN LEFT AND WAS HIT FROM BEHIND. THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING AT A SPEED ESTIMATED AT 45-50MPH. WHEN MY VEHICLE WAS STRUCK FROM BEHIND, THE DRIVER'S SEAT BACK COLLAPSED COMPLETELY. THE SEAT BACK FOLDED BACKWARDS UNTIL HITTING THE BOTTOM OF THE REAR SEAT. MY VEHICLE WAS THEN PROJECTED ACROSS ONCOMING TRAFFIC, WHILE MY SEAT WAS RECLINED. FORTUNATELY, I DID NOT STRIKE THE ONCOMING VEHICLES AND THERE WAS NO PASSENGER OR CAR SEAT IN THE REAR SEAT.*AK
2000-02-08

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-12-01
  • VIN: JH4UA3643WC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: MORALS COMPUTERIZED SYSTEM FAILED CAUSING CHECK LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE, RADIO DOES NOT WORK PROPERLY. *MJS
1999-10-26

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-09-23
  • VIN: NOT AVAILAB
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING ALONG AT A SPEED 45-55 MPH ON A STRAIGHT ROAD IN SUNNY WEATHER CONDITIONS CONSUMER HEARD A LOUD NOISE, AND THEN THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY WENT OUT OF CONTROL, ALMOST STRIKING SEVERAL VEHICLES.THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A BODY SHOP. PLEASE THE STRUT ROD HAD BROKEN OFF THE REAR WHEEL SPINDLE ASSEMBLEY, THE WHEEL WENT UP INTO THE WHEEL WELL CAUSING VEHICLE TO GO OUT OF CONTROL. *AK
1999-05-10

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-01-01
  • VIN: JH4UA3647WC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE TRANSMISSION HAS A HESITATION AND CLUNK WHEN IT SHIFTS FROM 1ST INTO 2ND , THE MANUFACTURER REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION DURING APRIL 1999. THE REPLACEMENT TRANSMISSION HAS BEGUN TO EXHIBIT THE SAME HESITATION AND JOLT WHEN IT SHIFTS FROM 1ST TO 2ND. THE DEALER STATES THAT THE MANUFACTURER IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND IS WORKING ON A FIX. DEALER STATES THAT THE PROBLEM IS NOT SAFETY RELATED, BUT WILL GET INCREASINGLY WORSE. *AK
1998-10-15

AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-09-14
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JH4UA2656WC
  • Components: AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION RESULTING IN VEHICLE COLLISION, VIOLENT DEPLOYMENT OF AIR BAGS DAMAGED WINDOW.
1998-09-29

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE BOTTON FOR THE HORN IS TOO SMALL TO LOCATE IN A PANIC SITUATION. DEALER SAYS THAT NOTHING CAN BE DONE BECAUSE OF THE DESIGN. *AK

1998 Acura Tl recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1998 Acura Tl.

1999-08-19
  • Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A TRANSMISSION CASE BOLT CAN LOOSEN AND FALL OUT ALLOWING THE TRANSMISSION TO DISENGAGE FROM THE DIFFERENTIAL.
  • Consequence: THE VEHICLE COULD LOSE POWER TO THE DRIVE WHEELS WITHOUT WARNING. ALSO, SHIFTING THE TRANSMISSION INTO THE PARK POSITION WOULD NOT LOCK THE WHEELS, AND A PARKED VEHICLE COULD MOVE UNEXPECTEDLY IF THE PARKING BRAKE IS NOT SET.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REDESIGNED BOLT.
1999-05-10
  • Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
  • Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. CERTAIN VEHICLES WERE MANUFACTURED WITH BALL JOINTS THAT CAN PREMATURELY WEAR OUT AND, IN THE WORSE CASE, THE BALL JOINT WOULD SEPARATE CAUSING THE FRONT SUSPENSION TO COLLAPSE.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION WOULD RESULT IN VEHICLE DECELERATION AND A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER. ALSO STEERING CONTROLLABILITY WOULD BE REDUCED.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS.

Negative 1998 Acura Tl car reviews

  1. Aric Blanda 2024-09-02

    I've had my car for a couple of years now and unfortunately, I've experienced some issues. It seems that it's common for multiple fuel injectors to fail at once in these cars, which is a shame. Additionally, the paint and body don't seem to hold up as well as other cars I've owned, and there are some squeaks and rattles. I've become a regular at the dealership, and my wife has also had to visit the service center frequently since purchasing her 2003 model. I decided to sell my BMW and switch to a more reliable car, but I learned a valuable lesson from this experience.

  2. Michael O'Conner 2024-05-05

    The car handles well and rides smoothly, but the interior is not very spacious. Unfortunately, the windows do not have a top seal which can cause some noise. The mileage is also not as good as the rated numbers. Although it is marketed as a premium car, it has had some problems such as a broken power seat, a replaced starter, and exhaust. Overall, it is an okay car, but it did not meet my expectations for a premium product. I should have considered buying a new Accord instead.

Positive 1998 Acura Tl car reviews

  1. Brain Mann 2025-01-07

    Hi there! I'm so glad to hear that you've been enjoying your car for over a year now. It sounds like it has plenty of power and is super comfortable. Thanks for sharing your positive experience!

  2. Eino Kuvalis 2024-11-15

    I really like this car, but unfortunately I bought one that had been wrecked. Despite this problem, which I didn't discover until later, the car has been great. It's fun to drive with more than average power. However, I have experienced some consistent problems that are in line with other reviews. For example, the seal on the driver's side window is bad, which makes for a lot of road noise. Additionally, the placement of the controls in the interior is the worst of any car I've seen. Although stylish, all of the luxury features are invisible because of the placement. Lastly, repairs are VERY expensive. I spend a lot of money at the dealership, who are the only people who know how to work on that car, even for oil changes. Trust me, it adds up.

  3. Dillon Jacobi 2024-10-29

    I purchased the TL as an Acura Certified pre-owned car with 44,000 miles on it. The condition of the paint, leather, and engine compartment was, and still is (at 56,000 miles), unbelievable; it looks like it just came out of the showroom. The car runs and drives like something much more expensive, and its 'gait' on the highway has to be experienced to be believed. It powers effortlessly along at illegal speeds. The transmission shifts are undetectable, unless you're really pushing it, and then you WANT to feel it shift, and it does so smartly. Handling is decent for a car of this size, weight, and genre. Reliability is rock solid.

  4. Adolfo Padberg 2024-10-24

    I live in Canada. Last year, I bought this vehicle from a dealer with 67000 km (41000 miles) and it was in mint condition. My wife and I have been using it mostly, and after 11 months, it has a little over 80000 km (50000 miles). I absolutely love every aspect of the car. It drives like an expensive luxury sedan, with a very smooth ride and effortless power.

  5. Jayme Purdy 2024-10-08

    You can rely on this vehicle for its good performance. It offers a very smooth ride and precise steering and handling.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1998 Acura Tl problems:

1998 Acura TL Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
1998 Acura TL Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1998-acura-tl/problems

Top 1998 Acura TL Problems · AutomaticTransmission May Fail, May Have Extended Warranty · Engine Idle Speed is Erratic or Engine Stalls · Check Engine Light for ...

Common First Gen TL Problems - AcuraZine - Acura Enthusiast ...
Common First Gen TL Problems - AcuraZine - Acura Enthusiast ...
https://acurazine.com/forums/1g-tl-problems-fixes-118/common-first-gen-tl-problems-541189/

Dec 12, 2003 ... Common First Gen TL Problems · 1. scratched tint · 2. rattling windows · 3. wind noises coming from windows/rubber seals · 4. check engine light · 5.

Q&A: 1998 Acura TL 2.5 - Common Problems & Solutions
Q&A: 1998 Acura TL 2.5 - Common Problems & Solutions
https://www.justanswer.com/acura/7jogc-2-5-tl-1998-acura-2-5-tl-recently-started.html

Feb 7, 2013 ... The trans controller does not know what gear the shifter is in so that is why you cant get the key out and why it shifts hard. start by checking ...

1998 3.2 TL: Starting Issues, P0335 & P1337 - AcuraZine - Acura ...
1998 3.2 TL: Starting Issues, P0335 & P1337 - AcuraZine - Acura ...
https://acurazine.com/forums/1g-tl-problems-fixes-118/1998-3-2-tl-starting-issues-p0335-p1337-983432/

Oct 24, 2019 ... I have no idea what to think at this point. Initially, I thought these codes indicated a malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor, but I took ...

Common Problems with RL | Acura World
Common Problems with RL | Acura World
https://www.acuraworld.com/threads/common-problems-with-rl.62463/

Oct 10, 2005 ... Common Problems with RL · ABS Regulators. Votes: 5 18.5% · Window Regulators. Votes: 14 51.9% · SRS Lights On. Votes: 10 37.0% · Oxygen Sensors.

Other years of Acura Tl

acura tl 1999 photo
Tl 1999
Acura

159

4

28

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura tl 2000 photo
Tl 2000
Acura

250

6

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura tl 2001 photo
Tl 2001
Acura

161

3

29

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura tl 2002 photo
Tl 2002
Acura

350

7

31

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura tl 2003 photo
Tl 2003
Acura

396

5

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura tl 2004 photo
Tl 2004
Acura

551

6

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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